Inspiration comes in many forms, designers at Maine Cottage® often get their creative juices flowing when walking along the beach collecting seashells, going to local farmer and flower markets, or digging deep into color theory. Someone who can relate to the creative process is our September featured artist, Patrice Drago—a fine artist with an airy abstract expressionist aesthetic. Her serene colors and fluid brushstrokes coordinate nicely with the coastal style of Maine Cottage® colorful handcrafted furniture. Join us on Friday, September 20th to experience this fun curated event!

Serenity (acrylic, 36" x 48") by Patrice Drago

Patrice Drago is a fine art painter that started painting at 14-years-old, she has explored many mediums and is heavily influenced by abstract expressionism.

Patrice Drago | Artist Statement: Painting is a new experience for me for me everyday. Rather than sticking to a particular method or style, I begin with an open mind and heart, allowing inspiration to come from within and giving freedom to the expression of my process. I love painting abstractly; both non-subjective and from nature because it creates a more fluid and dynamic feel. While my paintings and style are always evolving and finding new directions, there is a constant underlying theme of vivid colors and lightness of spirit. Ultimately, I paint to express joy.

Each month we’ll feature the artwork of talented local artists in our Flagship Store—located at 209 West Street in Annapolis, MD—and host a meet-and-greet event. Our design team has curated this unique lineup of artists whose styles range from abstract expressionism to pop art. All the pieces find a happy home with our colorful painted furniture, like being the focal point above the solid wood Julianna Bed or perched atop the elegant wicker Sally Hall Table. The palette of possibilities for decorating with color are endless.

Indulge in color with June’s special guest Sheila DeLaquil, a fine artist that works in water and mixed media, including acrylics and watercolor crayons. Artwork will be available for purchase and ranges from $300 to $1,200.

“It’s the adventure of painting that inspires me to paint. I’m energized by the painting process and by responding to what happens on the painting surface. I sometimes start working by laying down paint with no particular concept in mind and then work to create shapes, patterns, values and color relationships that are exciting to me. On other occasions, I may start a piece with a pre-conceived plan, but honestly, so much happens on the surface that I inevitably respond directly to what I see.” —Sheila DeLaquil

Welcome

The Maine Cottage® blog is a window into what inspires our designers to create cottage style furniture, coastal colors and unique fabric patterns. Whether you're an interior designer that specifies our products, a color consultant with creative block or a homeowner ready to live on the colorful side—welcome to our color drenched journey!